tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-111738342024-03-14T22:38:04.787+14:00from the OPSA President's desk...OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-51526989924268340832012-04-16T15:00:00.002+14:002012-04-16T15:03:17.248+14:00OPSA at FacebookHi blogsphere folks,<br /><br />Since the rise of Facebook we don't currently use this blog much as we'd like.<br /><br />You can check out the latest from OPSA at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OtagoPolytechnicStudentsAssociation">www.facebook.com/OtagoPolytechnicStudentsAssociation</a>.OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-12491251346087313242009-08-10T13:47:00.001+14:002009-08-10T13:49:01.904+14:00Wow, it’s the beginning of the second semester already ...Wow, it’s the beginning of the second semester already – seems like the year has flown by. To all the new students, welcome to Otago Polytechnic! To all the returning students, welcome back.<br /><br />It is well and truly the flu season at the moment. There are four people in the OPSA office that have been off sick with the flu. I had forgotten how much the flu really sucks.<br /><br />Over the break we were away at an NZUSA conference up in Auckland. David’s report is in this month so you can read about it from his perspective. If you are wanting to know any more, then drop into the OPSA office and ask. It was great to catch up with the other associations and see what they are up to, which leads me onto the next part.<br /><br />Many of the OPSA executive have been working on a campaign which is going to be launched really soon: the message of the campaign is “Study is a Full-Time Job”. Are you sick of the perception that students are drunk layabouts? I know I am, and so are the executive! Keep an eye out on campus for the posters, and also for someone wandering around with a camera and a mini-whiteboard. If you see them, then offer to have your picture taken with the number of hours you study written on the whiteboard.<br /><br />I am going to run a competition. The winner will be announced in the next month’s Gyro; the <span style="font-weight: bold;">first prize will be a $50 phone card</span>. The competition is simple, in 200 words or less tell me why you deserve to win the phone card.<br /><br />Send your entries into Meegan@opsa.org.nz with “Competition” in the subject line please.<br />Right. I’m off to hunt down some LemSip.<br />Ka kite ano for now!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right; font-style: italic;">Meegan Cloughley<br />OPSA Acting President 2009<br /></div>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-10123455039573258372009-05-28T15:37:00.001+14:002009-05-28T15:39:22.530+14:00President's column (Gyro)And then there was one. Ryan has left, he’s gone back down to Clinton to make some money as a builder. Ryan will be missed around the campus by students. In accordance with the constitution, the executive elected me to be Acting President until the elections later this year.<br /><br /><br />OPSA hosted the Annual ITP conference this year; we held it out at the Otākou Marae. The conference went extremely well in my opinion. There was a lot of networking, and some strong outcomes of where the associations are hoping to move towards in the near future. The strategic plan was split up so that each association had something to work on: the two that OPSA are moving with are improving the networking amongst ITPs and increasing the ITP portfolio. <br /><br /><br />The National Government has said they are not going to put any more money into the tertiary sector in this budget. Yes, this is something that is concerning – the institutions need to get their money from somewhere. If the fee maxima scheme is removed, then the fees could go up by any amount that the institution feels like. For example your fees of currently $4000 could go up to $8000 or more. Even though the fee maxima scheme isn’t the best in the world, it at least doesn't allow the institutions free range in the increase of fees.<br /><br /><br />OPSA is currently looking at ways to protest against the removal of fee maxima. Keep an eye out too and get involved when the action takes place.<br /><br /><br />Meegan Cloughley<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">OPSA Acting President</span>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-46379229478663828892008-06-06T12:13:00.002+14:002008-06-06T14:01:48.125+14:00Mid year alreadyIts hard to believe that that we are in June already, in many ways we look back over the last 5 months and wonder where they have gone. We hare both really enjoying this job, really enjoying interacting with the students, and we are so grateful for the aweseom executive we have this year. Their passion for OPSA is contagious, they want to continue do great events for the students, and keep improving the environment here. Coming up on the 12 of June we are having an event in the Quad area, so if you are around come and check it out, there will be lolly scrambles, fun and free stuff!! I am not going to tell you what it is about, you will need to come along and check it out!!<br />Righteo time for me to head off and get some other stuff done<br /><br />ka kite anoOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-25748083064757035332008-05-15T15:03:00.003+14:002008-05-15T15:12:15.167+14:00Polytech ConferenceWell we are back!! 10 of us headed up to Nelson for the NZUSA (New Zealand Union Student Associations) for the Polytech conference, must admit the town is beautiful!! But nothing beats our campus!! (ok a bit biased)<br />It was great to meet some of the exec from other campuses and catch up with the presidents, the OPSA exec were fantastic, and showed that they had been doing their research on the different workshops that were at the conference. We are all still writing our reports for the conference, and if anyone is interested in reading them come on over to the office in a couple of weeks. <br />On to the next thing now, there is going to be another lunch time event coming up over in the quad, not going to tell you what it is for yet, but keep an eye out for the posters...I will give you an idea of the date, it will be on the 12th June. We are looking into having some more social events as well like another quiz night, and maybe something else in the evening, if you have any ideas please let us know!<br /><br />Righteo, until next weekOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-63549395051483488562008-05-02T13:10:00.002+14:002008-05-02T13:12:35.031+14:00Term 1 wind-upWell with the month of April drawing to a close, it is time we made a special mention of the new OPSA executive committee. Elected less than 2 months ago, the exec is already expressing their interest in student issues for 2008. <br />With almost all of the portfolios taken these guys have been out organising events such as 10 billion dollar debt day and helping plan the campaigns for the year, on the 8th of April we are taking the Executive on their first conference in nelson. This is an annual conference held by NZUSA to help represent polytechnics on the national level. It’s a great chance for the exec to get out there and start expressing their opinions on things and really start learning about the issues face by today students around New Zealand.<br />A big thanks to all of you guys and girls who came along to the recent 10 billion dollar debt day on the 10th, the turnout was great, and all of you were really vocal about the issues. And were really stoked about the signatures we got on the banner, some of the comments were awesome and we expect some real tractions on the debt issue in the next election.<br />Anyway guys enjoy the next half of the semester and we look forward to seeing you all at the next OPSA event which is to be confirmed. <br />Cheers <br />Meegan and Ryan <br />OPSA Co-Presidents 2008OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-49826997574070545682008-05-02T13:05:00.001+14:002008-05-02T13:13:29.308+14:00March/AprilSo here we go the 2nd edition of our blog, I hope you all have had the chance to read at least of these editions as they are OPSA's best source of communication with you guys out there. <br />Recently the OPSA quiz night was held with raging success, a big thanks to all of those that turned up to enjoy the night.<br />The demand was so great that we decided to have another one, so keep and ear out and be sure to be in for the next one<br />Also coming up is 10 billion dollar debt day on the 10th of april<br />on the 10th student debt will hit the 10 billion dollar mark so OPSA is having a bit of an activity to show our discust at the government and also give you guys and girls a chance to be heard. so be sure to be in the forth st campus quad and make yourself heard. <br />Also the OPSA Exec has been elected, so a big thanks to all of you who went to the AGM and had your say in how OPSA is run. In may we will be taking the Exec away to nelson for their first NZUSA <br />(New Zealand Union of Students Associations)Polytechnic confernece. while away they will be representing all of you on national issues and helping NZUSA decide on what direction to take on these issues.<br />So if you have anything you would like them to take away and discuss with NZUSA and other ITP's let OPSA know.<br />Anyway people keep up the good studys and feel free to let us know whats going on in your side of things if you feel the urge<br />Cheers Meegan and Ryan<br />OPSA Co-PresidentsOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-76739476478822839522008-02-29T13:08:00.001+14:002008-02-29T13:08:59.267+14:00O weekIt is great to see the campus alive with students!! Orientation was a lot of fun, getting to meet some of the students through the inductions and orientation events, and both look forward to meeting more of you over the year. It seems that in the first week there is a lot of information that is given to everyone, and I remember when I was a student I was feeling really overwhelmed with it all, I guess the main thing that we would like everyone to remember is if you have any questions at all, OPSA is here for you.<br />At the moment there are nomination forms out to get on to our executive, they are available in Gyro, and also at the OPSA office if you want to pop in and grab one. Being on the exec is a lot of fun, you get the opportunity to meet other students on a national level at conferences. OPSA is a member of NZUSA, New Zealand Union Student Association, the national body that represents students, it works towards making students lives a lot better, if you want to have your voice heard more than it already is, become one of our exec and use that avenue. If you want to know what the different types of portfolios that are available again just come on into the office and we will print one off for you.<br />Time to head off and get some other work done, we are both looking forward to meeting you over the coming year.<br /><br />OPSA Co-PresidentsOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-33718307959111941442007-11-08T14:23:00.001+14:002007-11-08T14:23:30.056+14:00Presidents GoodbyeThe elections have been held and your 2008 Co-Presidents have been elected which means I will be vacating office on the 31st December 2007.<br /><br />It has been an absolute pleasure serving you all for the past two years. Thank to all our members who have made my job as exciting as possible. Thank you to all polytechnic staff and senior management who showed me a great deal of respect and took what I had to say seriously.<br /><br />Thank you to the OPSA staff without whom my job would not have been possible at all. The staff do not give themselves enough credit for the work they do. OPSA have a fantastic group of staff and I would like to thank each and every one of them for assisting me in performing my duties and President of the Association.<br /><br />To everyone who is graduating at the end of this year. Congratulations on your achievements. Remember graduation day is your day. Enjoy it.<br /><br />To everyone who is continuing study next year. Hang in there when the going gets tough as the rewards at the end are well worth it.<br /><br />To Ryan and Meegan, good luck for next year. Keep up the good fight.<br /><br />Thank you,<br /> <br />Richard Mitchell<br />2006 Co-President & 2007 PresidentOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-74736961592686209532007-11-08T14:22:00.001+14:002007-11-08T14:22:50.712+14:00The Year That Was - 2007January<br /><br />Enter two new Presidential staff. Well one new and one not so new. January was a good start to a great year. Richard and Ryan begin planning for the year and outlines events and such things.<br /><br />February<br /><br />Enter….students. OPSA was flooded with students’ requiring ID cards and assistance with various things such as enrolments issues and student loan and allowance applications<br /><br />Orientation<br />This years Orientation was the highest ticket selling orientation in orientation history<br /><br />Student Services Area<br />OPSA opened out student service self service area which includes binding, laminating, black and white and colour photocopying, internet access, OP network access, fax machine.<br /><br />March<br /><br />OPSA Annual General Meeting<br />OPSA’s annual general meeting was held in March. At this meeting the 2007 OPSA Executive was elected and the meeting accepted the 2006 budget, approved the 2007 budget and accepted the 2006 Co-Presidents report.<br /><br />Graduation Parade<br />The parade preceding the graduation ceremony was enjoyed by all and was a change for all graduates to enjoy a day dedicated entirely to them.<br /><br />March Graduation<br />The first graduation for 206 was held in the Town Hall. OP also held their third Maori Graduation Ceremony<br /><br />St. Patrick’s Day<br />OPSA celebrated St. Patrick’s Day (well at least the Friday before) with a fantastic morning breakfast for all students who were brave enough to come out at 8:30 in the morning. Such a great feed.<br /><br />April<br /><br />Interest Fee Student Loans<br />OPSA celebrated the 1st anniversary of Labours Interest Fee Student Loans policy by providing cake in the student centre and combining with OUSA to provide events on both the University and Polytechnic campuses.<br /><br />May<br /><br />Soup Kitchens<br />After the success of the Soup Kitchens in 2006, OPSA restarted these to help you through the winter months.<br /><br />June<br /><br />Holidays<br />A big part of June was taken up with holidays.<br /><br /> <br />July<br /><br />Gyro Digital<br />OPSA embraced the digital age and put your magazine, Gyro, online. This can be viewed at http://www.gyro.org.nz <br /><br />August<br /><br />2007 University Sport Snow Games<br />Otago Polytechnic was the only polytechnic in New Zealand invited to enter a team for the 2007 University Sport Snow Games. The games were full of hard fought competition and the Otago Polytechnic got a silver medal. Hadley Boyle (Bachelor of Product Design) has taken Otago Polytechnic’s first ever medal at the University Snow Games. <br />Boyle’s combined run time of 137.88 in the Snowboard Giant Slalom Men’s placed him second out of 35, between Phil Dominick of Massey Albany (first place with 137.27) and Will Marshall of Canterbury University. <br /><br />OPSA’s new logo<br />OPSA created a new logo. It is much more modern and good looking.<br /> <br /><br />September<br /><br />Fee Setting<br />Despite the work that was done around a zero fee increase at Otago Polytechnic for 2008, the Otago Polytechnic Council still voted to increase 2008 tuition fees to the maximum allowable under the Fee Course Cost Maxima Scheme.<br /><br />Tertiary Challenge<br />OPSA worked with a group of students from the Otago Sports Institute lead by Geoff Simons and Terry Wilson in organising the Southern Tertiary Challenge. Unfortunately, for reasons outside of OPSA’s control, the Southern Tertiary Challenge was cancelled.<br /><br />Cultural Food Festival<br />12 groups from various nations cooked food for the day. All groups were well received and nothing but positive comments were made about the day.<br /><br />October<br /><br />SJS Regional Chair<br />Ryan Ward was nominated for the position of 2008 Student Job Search Otago Regional Caucus Chair. There were two candidates nominated and the vote was tied. Ryan, proving that he is a bigger man than the other candidate, withdrew warning the newly elected RC chair, and I quote, “I will ride him for all of 2008”.<br /><br />November<br /><br />OPSA Staff Awards<br />In recognition of the quality of the lecturers at Otago Polytechnic, OPSA awarded eight staff, from student nominations, the 2007 Staff Awards.<br /><br />OPSA Blues Awards<br />OPSA was honoured to award the following students with the 2007 OPSA Blues Awards:OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-89821243263593308412007-09-06T16:00:00.003+14:002007-09-06T16:00:54.853+14:00Media Release; OP Fees Raised by MaximumOtago Polytechnic Council today increased fees by the maximum allowed under the fee maxima policy. Most students studying at Otago Polytechnic in 2008 will now see their fees increase by up to 5% on the 2007 levels. <br /><br />This is the fourth 5% fee raise passed the Otago Polytechnic Council in as many years. <br /><br />“Students will have now seen a virtual fee increase of more than 16% since 2004. This completely out strips inflation” states Richard Mitchell, OPSA President. <br /><br />“It is disappointing to see that the Council has backed away from their own commitment and responsibilities to barrier-free education” states Mr Mitchell.<br /><br />The Otago Polytechnic Council also had the option of a zero percent fee raise. <br /><br />“This would have sent a very obvious and bold statement to the government stating that the Council are not prepared to pass the costs of under-funding on to indebted students.” said Mr Mitchell<br /><br />Government under-funding contributes largely to the problem.<br /><br />“While it would be easy to blame the Council for free increases, the root of the problem is under-funding by successive governments is” says Mr Mitchell <br /><br />Contact for further comment:<br />Richard Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<br /><br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 027 320 2956<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-71367337527900181032007-09-06T16:00:00.001+14:002007-09-06T16:00:31.812+14:00Media Release; Students warn Polytechnic council against further fee increasesStudents at the Otago Polytechnic warn the Polytechnic’s council that fee increases would not be tolerated by students under any circumstances.<br /><br />“Students at Otago Polytechnic are fed up and annoyed after paying hundreds of dollars in constant fee increases and will not tolerate further increases,” said Richard Mitchell, president of the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA).<br /><br />Otago Polytechnic chose to increase its fees up to the maximum of 5% under the Fee Course Cost Faxima scheme for the past two years<br /><br />“Fee increases are not necessary to balance the Polytechnic’s books. Why the Polytechnic would want to take even more money in 2007 from students who are already struggling to pay the bills is a complete mystery,” said Mitchell.<br /><br />“The government needs to put its money where its mouth is and start funding tertiary institutions properly,” stated Mr Mitchell<br /><br />The Polytechnic will set it’s 2008 tuition fees at the Polytechnic Council meeting this afternoon, Wednesday 5th September 2007, at 3:15pm<br /><br />Ends<br /><br />For more information contact:<br />Richard Mitchell <br />President <br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA) <br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 027 320 2956<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-76745188001363394202007-09-06T15:59:00.000+14:002007-09-06T16:00:07.135+14:00Media Release; OPSA Spices it upTomorrow OPSA hosts it’s second ever International Food Festival following the success of last year’s event.<br /><br />“Last year’s Food Festival was well patronised and very colourful event, with a good chance to sample food from many areas of the world.” said Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA) President, Richard Mitchell.<br /><br />The Festival showcases the ethnic diversity of the Otago polytechnic. Food stalls this year include; Samoa, India, Kiwi, Japan, Ireland, and the United States of America.<br /><br />“Otago Polytechnic students come from many different areas of the globe, and the Festival is a great opportunity to see the different flavours of the Polytechnic” stated Mr Mitchell.<br /><br />This year’s Festival will also see new stalls including a Queertopia food stall, and a stall featuring the famous good of a fictional country.<br /><br />Food will be served at 12 noon, Wednesday 5 September. Prompt attendance is recommended for those wanting a great range of samples.<br /><br /><br />Further information:<br />Richard J Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<br /><br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 027 320 2956<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-67300717173296961222007-08-13T16:59:00.001+14:002007-08-13T16:59:56.347+14:00Media Release; OPSA Calls for Investment in International StudentsOPSA welcomes National's recognition for the need to invest in international students. On Friday Pansy Wong pointed out that "In 2004 there were 112,675 foreign fee-paying students, which slumped to 98,266 by 2005. A more than 10% drop in a single year cannot be ignored". However, Pansy did not say what or how National would reverse these figures. <br /><br />Students know of course. <br /><br />The best way to invest in international students and increase numbers is to decrease the inflated fees international students pay. <br /><br />However, Ms Wong also states that "What was a growing and lucrative foreign currency earner for New Zealand has suffered at the hands of Labour's inconsistent immigration and international education policies." <br /><br />OPSA is concerned National sees international students as cash cows to be used to help fund our currently under-funded education system. <br /><br />OPSA calls for all parties to increase investment in education by increasing funding and regulating fees downwards.<br /><br />For more information contact:<br /><br />Richard J Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<br /><br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 027 320 2956<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-62834139762308703382007-06-30T16:36:00.000+14:002007-06-30T16:37:35.273+14:00Letter to New Zealand Government on behalf of UniQ@OPSAMark Burton, MP<br />Minister of Justice<br />Parliament Buildings<br />Wellington<br /><br />Thursday, 28 June 2007<br /><br />Dear Mark,<br /><br />Like most New Zealanders, I think everyone deserves a fair go. However, there is a legal argument called the "Homosexual Panic Defence" which is plainly unfair to Gay, Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Kiwis.<br /><br />Too many times in New Zealand a murderer's sentence has been lessened because it is claimed that their victim allegedly made sexual advances.<br /><br />New Zealand has some of the most progressive LGBT laws in the world but Homosexual Panic Defence is unjust and discriminatory.<br /><br />On behalf of the queer and queer-friendly members of the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association, I urge you to create and table a bill in parliament that will remove the “Homosexual Panic Defence” from New Zealand legislation.<br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br /><br /><br />Richard Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<br /><br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 021 182 6274<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-74290560492565347732007-06-30T16:35:00.000+14:002007-06-30T16:36:50.252+14:00Letter to New Zealand Government re: Minimum Fire Detection RequirementsHon. Chris Carter, MP<br />Minister for Housing<br />Parliament Buildings<br />Wellington<br /><br />Tuesday, 26 June 2007<br /><br />To Hon. Chris Carter,<br /><br />Since the beginning of 2007, there have been two house fires in student flats in Dunedin. Though there have been no causalities and serious injuries in either of these fires they have still been tragic and emotionally hurtful for all those involved.<br /><br />I believe that both of these fires highlight a serious gap in New Zealand legislation in terms of fire safety for residential flats. I agree that the tenants of these flats have a responsibility to ensure that the flats that they are renting are protected as much as possible from the dangers of fires, I also believe that the landlords need to be responsible for providing safe housing conditions for their tenants and this includes preventive fire measures and fire detection systems.<br /><br />I understand that there is currently legislation in place that requires buildings with rooms more than a given number to have sprinkler systems and smoke alarms in place however currently no requirement exists for landlords of residential flats/houses.<br /><br />To this end, on behalf of the members of the Otago Polytechnic Students' Association, I would to request that you formulate and table a bill in the house of representatives that requires landlords to fit the flats they rent out with minimum requirements of fire detection systems (including smoke alarms in all rooms and a certain number of fire extinguishers depending on the numbers of rooms in the flat).<br /><br />Too often it takes a tragedy when several people perish in a house fire before the government will enact preventative legislation. The best thing the government can do in this situation is to create legislation before a tragedy occurs.<br /><br />Please feel free to contact me if you wish to discuss this request in further detail.<br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Richard Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students' Association<br /><br />Phone/Fax: 03 477 6974<br />Mobile: 021 182 6274<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nzOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-83990413507436789532007-06-15T14:04:00.000+14:002007-06-15T14:05:35.679+14:00Media Release; Can National Really Change its Spots?If National are to avoid its mistakes of the nineties it needs to change some if its policies. <br /><br />Their tertiary education policy still advocates the reforms on education made by the last National government that badly failed students and the country. <br /><br />OPSA welcomes any real deviation away from this path. Mr Key is quite right when he says "there are half a million New Zealanders who've now got used to not paying interest and we have to listen to that pretty carefully", and he probably also thinking about the next generation of families who adding further debt to their children will be pretty unpopular. <br /><br />Indeed National probably remember the effects their highly unpopular education reforms from their last term in office: National dramatically increased Labour's student fees, ended universal student allowances, invented student debt, attempted to destabilise students' associations, and made quality/funding cuts. These rampant reforms saw education a consistent top 3 voter concern during their entire term. But can National really change its spots? <br /><br />OPSA is under no illusion that Mr Key's motivation to keep interest-free is because of the popularity of interest-free rather than any admission of the failures of National's previous education policies. Students are sick of being a political football for the last two decades and OPSA welcomes any real commitment from National to not reversing interest-free.<br /><br />For further information contact:<br /><br />Richard Mitchell<br />President<br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<br /><br />Tel/Fax: (03) 477-6974<br />Mobile: 021-182-6274<br />Email: president@opsa.org.nz <br /><br />ENDS:OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-58766863164985020112007-06-10T22:08:00.000+14:002007-06-10T22:10:33.661+14:00Media Release; Still Too Much SubsidyThe Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA) is pleased to see DCC Councillors are favouring halving the amount DCC is proposed to subsidise the new stadium project. However, OPSA claims that the newly proposed amount of around $50 million is still far more than the City can, or should, afford.<br /><br />“The newly proposed subsidy needs to be halved again. The City is currently struggling with its $100M debt, it simply makes no sense to go a further $50M in debt for a project that really brings nothing new to the city” said Richard Mitchell, OPSA president.<br /><br />Over half of OPSA members do not believe the stadium should receive any rates-sourced funding at all. The overall average subsidy OPSA members believe is appropriate for local bodies to contribute is around 10%; less than half of the newly proposed amount of $50M.<br /><br />A further concern to OPSA is that any proposed subsidy must be fixed. OPSA believe the calculated cost of the proposed stadium is unrealistically low and the actual cost will be much higher. OPSA urges the DCC and ORC to limit any contributions to a fixed dollar amount, rather than a percentage of an unknown - and potentially spiralling – amount.<br /><br />“Any local body contributions must be absolutely fixed amounts; to promise an essentially open cheque-book would be totally unacceptable” said Mr Mitchell.<br /><br /><br />Further information from:<br /><br />Richard Mitchell<br />OPSA President<br />(03) 477-6974 or 027-320-2956OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-68299880049134159682007-05-26T17:13:00.000+14:002007-05-26T17:14:48.633+14:00Media Release; Dunedin Free Bus ServiceToday OPSA presented its case-study for a fare-free citywide bus service at DCC and ORC draft annual plan hearings.<br /><br />“OPSA sees effective public transport as a key to keeping Dunedin a healthy and vibrant city, and a solution to parking and congestion problems. The convenience of simply being able to hop-on and hop-off buses wherever and whenever you liked without a pocket full of coins would make bus usage far more desirable.” said OPSA president, Richard Mitchell.<br /><br />As long as the cost of public transport is anything close to private transport, users are always going opt for the vastly greater flexibility of private transport. While more suitable routes and timetables are always needed, fares are one dimension to bus usage than could be addressed immediately.<br /><br />In the North Island Horizons District Council found making it bus service free around its congested campus area increased usage by over 100%. This is supported overseas by other cities that have free bus services; especially in the US where many tertiary institutions and local authorities arrange free buses for students.<br /><br />A free bus service is affordable. There are a number of ways it could be charged, but if distributed over DCC/ORC rates OPSA calculates it would mean totally free bus transport to all residents for the cost of less than $2 per week per household - about half the price of a new stadium - and an amenity that would be used every day by many more residents.<br /><br />The DFBS discussion-paper can be obtained from OPSA, or can be downloaded as a Word document from <a href="http://www.opsa.org.nz/downloads/FREE_BUS.doc">http://www.opsa.org.nz/downloads/FREE_BUS.doc</a>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-6293639788644674512007-05-26T17:10:00.000+14:002007-05-26T17:13:32.168+14:00Media Release; Students Bag Rate-Payer Funded StadiumToday OPSA presented its survey of Otago Polytechnic student opinion on the proposed new stadium at DCC and ORC draft annual plan hearings. In the face of a postal survey that avoided student opinion, and recent attempts by ‘Our Stadium’ to misrepresent student opinion (ODT, 26 April), OPSA conducted its own informed survey of student opinion.<br /><br />The key finding is that 63% of respondents do not support a new stadium, compared to 37% who do support a new stadium. This support drops to 24% if it involves increases to rates, or flow-on increases in rents (full results below). This is consistent with the DCC’s original residents’ survey with 66% against, and 22% for a new stadium.<br /><br />OPSA’s survey differs significantly from the Carisbrook Stadium Trust’s survey reported in today’s ODT , in that it was an informed and more meaningful survey; OPSA’s survey did not avoid the hard questions - respondents were also asked about support for the stadium if they had to pay for it through their rates.<br /><br />“We’re not surprised that a survey which simply asks ‘do you want a new stadium?’ elicits a positive response. However, a meaningful survey that asks ‘do you want a new stadium if will cost you?’ is a different question, with a different answer” said OPSA president, Richard Mitchell.<br /><br />OPSA’s survey also elicited many comments from OP students that the proposed stadium was unaffordable to the city and its rate-payers, that Dunedin was too small for such a stadium to be financially viable, and that upgrading the current stadium would be preferable.<br /><br /><strong>OP Student opinion on a New Stadium</strong><br /><br /><u>Lack of Support </u><br />63% of respondents do not support a new stadium compared to 37% who do support a new stadium. However, this support drops to 24% if it involves increases to rates, or flow-on increases in rents. This is reasonably close to the original residents’ survey with 66% against, and 22% for a new stadium.<br /></u><br /><u>Qualified support</u><br /><br />It should also be noted that many of the supporters commented that they only supported a new stadium if it could secure top level international rugby games, or if was truly multi-purpose.<br /><br /><u>Need </u><br /><u><br /></u>Only 16% of all respondents believe a stadium is needed. Even stadium supporters are not convinced it is needed; 32% of stadium supporters do not believe Dunedin actually needs a new stadium.<br /></u><br /><u>Who should pay?</u><br /><br />The majority of respondents did not believe a new stadium should be funded by rates or rent increases; 58% opted for a $0 increase in rates or rent to pay for a new stadium. Only 25% would pay extra rates or rent to fund a new stadium (largely, but not exclusively supporters).<br />Irrespective of supporting the stadium or not, almost 100% of respondents believed the majority of the stadium should be funded privately (eg private funding, sponsorship, user-pays, etc), instead of from rates or Council money.<br /><br /><u>How much?</u><br /><br />58% of respondents believe the DCC/ORC should not subsidise the project at all. Only 25% believed it should be subsidised by local authorities. The overall average subsidy respondents believe should be made by local authorities is 13%.<br />The overall average rates increase respondents would pay was $42 per annum.<br /><br /><u>City debt</u><br /><br />Irrespective of supporting the stadium or not - almost 100% of respondents believed the DCC should be planning to decrease its total debt instead of increasing it.<br /><br /><u>Spending Priorities</u><br /><br />55% of respondents believed improved public transport and parking should be number one spending priority for local authorities. Of the stadium supporters 32% believe a new stadium should be the top spending priority, 28% of supporters believe public transport and parking should be the top spending priority.OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-59518744297099871982007-05-17T19:56:00.000+14:002007-05-17T19:58:33.572+14:00Media Release; Students' hopeful of United<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">United Future today claimed they "<i>will work to fulfil the Confidence and Supply Agreement with the Labour-led government to see lowering of the age of eligibility to a student allowance.</i>" After over a decade of 25 year olds being treated like children students are hopeful of such comments.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>"What does this mean? asks Richard Mitchell, OPSA president, “Are United going to step up and demand lowering of allowance eligibility as a requirement for United's vote for Confidence and Supply?" </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>"We welcome any party to persuade the government to increase access to allowances, but students are sick of being a political football and hope this is a concrete demand." said Mr Mitchell. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="" lang="EN-NZ"><o:p></o:p>Students agree with United's Judy Turner’s comment that “<i>It defies logic that once again, there is no reduction in the age of eligibility for student allowances</i>". <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>United Future's policy of lowering the eligibility age for a student allowance is well-matched with the position advocated by students since National introduced means-tested allowances in the early 1990s for "children" of up to 25 years old. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>"It is appalling this farce of 25 year old 'children' has continued. Sure the Labour led government has slightly opened criteria, but not nearly enough." said Mr Mitchell. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>"Universal student allowances are of course the best option, they are not only fairer but solve all such eligibility criteria problems." said Mr Mitchell.<br /><o:p> </o:p></span><br /><b style=""><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU">For further information contact:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p></span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU">Richard Mitchell<o:p></o:p><br />President<o:p></o:p><br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p>Tel/Fax: (03) 477-6974<o:p></o:p></span><br /><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU">Mobile</span></st1:City></st1:place><span style="font-size: 10pt;" lang="EN-AU">: 021-182-6274<o:p></o:p><br />Email: <a href="mailto:president@opsa.org.nz">president@opsa.org.nz</a></span></p>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-12683509567538815802007-05-15T08:57:00.001+14:002007-05-15T08:57:30.278+14:00Big Dick's ColumnWelcome to term 2. I trust you are all well and truly rested and ready for the busy end of semester one. There are a couple of things I would like to bring to your attention:<br /><br />International Workers’ Day: Also known as May Day, this takes place on the first of May and is a day where we celebrate all the workers around the world. It’s a day where we can celebrate all the work done by unions and other worker organizations around the world. So, to celebrate, drop everything you are doing, take off all your clothes and run naked down George Street. Actually, on second thought — please don’t.<br /><br />Just remember, ask not only what you can do for your union, but what your union will do for you. University Sport New Zealand (USNZ): USNZ are currently discussing whether or not to expand their membership criteria to include polytechnic members. Membership would allow Otago Polytechnic students to take advantage of the services offered by USNZ and also would allow you to attend the various sports events run by them. I am currently seeking advice and direction on what you think of this idea. E-mail your comments to president@opsa.org.nz.<br /><br />OPSA Events: I am currently in the process of planning events for the remainder of semester one and for the beginning of semester two. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please email these to president@opsa.org.nz.<br /><br />OP Print-Charging: I know this is frustrating many of you and, rest assured, it’s fucking me off also. I have been told three or four different things regarding the (poorly) introduced polytechnic print-charging system. I am currently discussing this with Polytechnic management and will get back to you all ASAP.<br /><br />Well, by now you’re probably sick of reading what I have to say. Go well in your studies and remember OPSA are here for YOU.<br /><br />Te manu e kai ana i te miro, nona te ngahere<br /><br />Te manu e kai ana i te matauranga, nona te Ao<br /><br />The bird who feasts from the miro owns the forest<br /><br />The bird who feasts from knowledge owns the World<br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br />Richard Mitchell<br /><br />President<br /><br />Otago Polytechnic Students’ AssociationOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-16348490586900416372007-05-07T11:14:00.000+14:002007-05-07T11:18:23.285+14:00ODT Article; Uni games may open arms to polytech students<p>One of New Zealand’s oldest multisport events may soon embrace a new group of competitors. </p><p>Breaking a tradition which began with the first event in 1902, polytechnic and technological college <a name="AHit3">students</a> are likely to be invited to compete in the University Games. </p><p>University Sport New Zealand (USNZ), the student-run organisation that organises the games and six other sporting events annually, has agreed in principle to expand membership to more than 213,000 <a name="AHit4">stu</a><a name="AHit5"></a><a name="AHit6">dents</a> studying at the country’s 20 polytechnics. </p><p>The final decision on constitutional changes will be made next month, and president Hamish Hopkinson, of Auckland, said he was reasonably confident the membership rules would change. </p><p>“We’ve been talking about this for the past 10 years but nothing has happened. It is time we dealt with it,” he said yesterday. </p><p>The University Games, held each Easter, are the secondlargest multisport event in the country, behind the Masters Games. This year’s games, in Christchurch, attracted 2150 competitors in 46 team and individual events. </p><p> USNZ staff also organised an annual cricket tournament, triathlon and snow games, and was this year planning the inaugural yachting regatta. In addition, three regional tertiary challenge events were held, which also involved polytechnic <a name="AHit7">stu</a><a name="AHit8"></a><a name="AHit9">dents</a>. </p><p>Bringing polytechnic <a name="AHit10">students</a> on board was an exciting opportunity to broaden competition, Mr Hopkinson said. </p><p> “More competitors and more teams means better competition.” </p><p>USNZ had worked hard in recent years to improve the image and quality of competition at <a name="AHit11">student</a> games, he said. </p><p>“In the 1980s and early 1990s, university events were dominated by alcohol. But we have spent the past few years trying to be a more professional organisation. </p><p>“By bringing polytechnic <a name="AHit12">stu</a><a name="AHit13"></a><a name="AHit14">dents</a> on board we would represent 100% of tertiary <a name="AHit15">students</a> and would grow our influence in the sporting event sector.” </p><p> Initial support from Otago Polytechnic <a name="AHit16">students</a> was positive, <a name="AHit17">student</a> association president Richard Mitchell said yesterday, particularly from the institution’s Sports Institute of Otago and Adventure. </p><p>There would be some natural rivalry between university and polytechnic competitors, he said. </p><em>This article was taken from the Friday 5th May 2007 edition of the Otago Daily Times with the express permission of the writer, Allison Rudd.</em>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-58988129774058419662007-03-31T19:10:00.000+14:002007-03-31T19:11:38.392+14:00Media Release; 2007 OPSA President's March Graduation Speech<p><br />Purchasing a car. Buying a house. Getting married. These are all tough decisions. The decision to embark upon tertiary education can also be a very tough decision. For some of you this has meant leaving home for the first time. Moving to a new city and meeting new people. For others, you have returned to tertiary study after being in the workforce for many years. Having to remember what it was like to study, how to study and also dealing with the stress that comes with it. </p><p><br />It doesn’t matter why you decided to enter tertiary study, all that matters is that you made. Today is your opportunity to celebrate the journey you have been through.</p><p><br />Your journey has consisted of many hours huddled over books, essays, computers, projects and having to learn to deal with the stress that is placed upon students in today’s society. You have had to fit your studies around such things as looking after your children, running a household, and spending time with friends among a huge array of other things. </p><p><br />Graduation day is a day where we all come together to celebrate each and every graduands outstanding achievement. An achievement that for some has been a smooth road to victory. You have always known what you wanted to do. For others, the road to graduation was not so smooth. You may have had to battle through many obstacles such as family issues, financial discomfort, and personal fear. You should all feel a great deal of pride and satisfaction in yourselves for completing your journey. Today is your day. </p><p><br />There are a number of defining moments when you are a student. That first assignment you had to do. The tension you felt before you got your marks back and the joy you felt when you passed. I can also almost guarantee that all of you can remember the last assignment you completed. The feeling of relief you felt as you handed it over and realised that you are coming to the end of an era. For some of you, today is the end of classroom education for you, however you will all continue learning from this day forth making yourself better at what you do for the benefit of yourself and for the benefit of society. For those that have made the decision to continue on your journey you will be gaining a further in-depth knowledge in your chosen area and this will benefit you in both educational growth and personal growth.</p><p><br />Our wonderful graduands here, with all their unique differences will be able to fix, teach, programme, organize, create, and generally sort out a wide variety of things. I am proud, as I am sure is everyone behind me, of our graduands unique differences that will make for an exciting future for generations to come.</p><p><br />Otago Polytechnic graduates will go on to inspire many people to achieve as you have done today. Along with those who have assembled here to honour your unity in graduation today I pay tribute to your accomplishments and wish each exceptional one of you an exciting future- a future which celebrates and values your accomplishments today and into the future.</p><p><br />Along with our graduands there are a number of other people here today that deserve praise and thanks also. These people have been through the good and bad times of studying. They have seen the stress, the tears, the frustration and the happy times for our graduands. They are very rarely seen or heard during the course of study yet they have helped the graduates through their studies more than is recognised. The people I am talking about are the friends and family that have joined us here today to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduands. On behalf of those graduating today, thank you.</p><p><br />In closing, let it be one alone that stands among the other stars in the sky.In other words be your own leader and achieve.</p><p><br />Thank you.</p>OPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11173834.post-69234192798495360632007-03-31T19:07:00.000+14:002007-03-31T19:10:16.243+14:00Media Release; It some cases, it's not the size that mattersThe National Student Debt has now hit a massive nine billion dollars<br /><br />“Nine billion dollars in student debt is staggering. Student debt is a serious threat to our society and can no longer be ignored,” said Richard Mitchell, President of the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA)<br /><br />“Student debt is making it increasingly difficult for graduates to own their own home, is delaying graduates from having children, and hindering New Zealand’s future” stated Mr Mitchell<br /><br />A recent Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report commented that the current system does not address to the full extent the financial barriers students face in accessing Tertiary Education<br /><br />“There are two simple ways to alleviate the student debt problem. First, introduce a universal student allowance. Second, bring back free education. It’s that simple”, says Mr. Mitchell<br /><br />Today students will be active on campuses around the country promoting the detrimental effects of the nine billion dollar student debt crisis.<br /><br />OPSA urge the government to recognise the effects the student loan scheme is having on students and graduates and immediately move towards introducing a universal student allowance and free educationOPSA Presidenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05121697531883067446noreply@blogger.com0